Torn Heart's

chapter 2

The next morning, Arjun woke up at 5 AM. He hit the gym for a solid two-hour workout, sweating out his frustrations and clearing his mind with each exercise.

After the workout, Arjun took a long, relaxing shower. The warm water eased his muscles and calmed his restless mind.Feeling refreshed, Arjun got dressed for his office. As he descended the stairs to have breakfast, he heard the sound of laughter echoing from the kitchen. Curious, he followed the cheerful sound and found his mother and Ridhima sharing a light-hearted moment.

His mother looked up with a bright smile when she saw him. "Good morning, Arjun.Join us for breakfast," she said

Arjun glanced at Ridhima, who greeted him with a polite smile.

"Good morning," he replied

As they finished breakfast"how is my mother's health been" he asked

Ridhima smiled warmly at him "She's doing well, Arjun.She has been taking good care of herself, as always unlike you"

Ridhima was not only his mother's doctor but also their neighbor, which meant she often visited their house. Over time, she developed a strong bond with his mother, and the two could spend hours gossiping and sharing stories over cups of masala tea.

Arjun was preparing to leave for his office when his mother called out to him from the living room. "Arjun, wait a moment," she said, catching his attention.

He turned to see his mother

"Arjun, could you do me a favour.Ridhima's car is at the garage for repairs. Could you drop her off at her clinic"she requested

"Sure, Ma, I will wait for her."he replied

Arjun waited in the living room, glancing at the clock as he waited for Ridhima. Soon, she emerged, greeted him with a polite smile, and they headed to his car.

The drive to the office was quiet, with occasional small talk about work.Arjun focused on driving while Ridhima keep glancing at him

Riddhima cleared her throat, gaining his attention. "Actually, mamma has invited you and aunty for dinner. Aunty ne toh haan keh di, but I am waiting for your answer. Would you like to join us" Riddhima asked him, praying inside that he would agree.

"I will see if I will be free early today. I will join you," he replied, looking straight.

"Kya yaara, Arjun, you always say this and never come," Riddhima said

"You know that I hate gatherings and I usually avoid them," Arjun replied.

"But it is not like hazaaru log honge. Bas aunty, tum, aur mere parents. Itna bhi kya hai,"

Arjun stayed quiet.

"Please Arjun, itna kaam karoge na, toh baal pureh safayed ho jayenge. Dekho tumhare safayed baal mujhe yahan sahi dikh rahe hai," Riddhima said and was about to touch his hair when he glared at her. She immediately took her hand back, knowing that he hates when someone touches his hair.

Riddhima sighed and looked down, trying to think of another way to convince him. "Arjun, it is just dinner. Mama would be so happy to see you. You know how much she likes you."

"I think about it"Arjun replied

Riddhima nodded"Just try, please."

Arjun gave a reluctant smile. "Alright, I will try. But no promises."

"That's good enough for me," Riddhima said, her face lighting up with a smile

As they reached the clinic, Ridhima thanked him softly. "Thank you for the ride, Arjun."